Silk Road Medical Inc. and Genesis MedTech Group have signed an exclusive distribution agreement to introduce the TCAR® core products, ENROUTE® Transcarotid Neuroprotection System and ENROUte® Transcarotid Stent System, in China. TCAR (Transcarotid Artery Revascularization) is an innovative minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat carotid artery disease, a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries in the neck. This narrowing or blockage can restrict blood flow to the brain and increase the risk of stroke.

Since its establishment in 2019, Genesis MedTech Group has continuously strived to enhance its peripheral interventional portfolio, offering comprehensive solutions to both physicians and patients. Through its commercial team and distribution network, patients in China will now have access to the core TCAR products, the ENROUTE® Neuroprotection System and Stent Delivery System. TCAR has shown to reduce the risk of stroke, death, myocardial infraction (MI), and Cranial Nerve Injury (CNI).

It is a less invasive procedure with lower rates of procedural complications and an overall improvement in outcomes, contributing to a positive impact on healthcare. Carotid artery disease often occurs in the middle-aged and elderly population, especially among those with atherosclerosis. The condition is characterized by the buildup of plaque, and over time can cause narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries, affecting blood supply to the brain and leading to diseases such as ischemic stroke.

In recent years, stroke has become the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. In China, it now ranks as the primary cause of death and disability. Each year, over 17 million strokes affect individuals over 40 years old.

Notably, around one third of ischemic strokes are caused by carotid artery disease. In the United States, TCAR is rapidly replacing traditional procedures. As of the end of 2023, over 85,000 TCAR procedures have been performed.

Before the introduction of TCAR, moderate to severe carotid artery disease was generally treated clinically with two surgical methods: Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) and Transfemoral Carotid Artery Stenting (TFCAS). However, CEA involves a large incision and carries a higher risk of complications, posing a risk of damage to the cranial nerves of patients. Studies have also shown a higher risk of stroke during TFCAS as compared to TCAR and CEA.

Based on clinical studies, TCAR is an advancement in the management of carotid artery disease.